Vietnam’s food is a tantalizing fusion of fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and regional diversity. From the fragrant pho of Hanoi to the rich coconut curries of the Mekong Delta, each dish tells a story of local traditions and culinary artistry. If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, don’t miss these must-try dishes and the best places to savor them!
1. Pho – Hanoi
Description: Pho is Vietnam’s most iconic dish, a comforting noodle soup served with beef or chicken, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lime. The flavorful broth is simmered for hours, creating a dish that’s simple yet deeply satisfying.
Where to Try It:
- Pho Gia Truyen in Hanoi is renowned for its rich broth and perfectly cooked beef.
- Pho Bat Dan in Hanoi’s Old Quarter is another famous spot, where locals line up daily to savor authentic pho.
2. Banh Mi – Ho Chi Minh City
Description: Banh mi is a Vietnamese sandwich with French influences, featuring a crispy baguette filled with a combination of pork, pate, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. It’s a perfect street food option, balancing flavors and textures in every bite.
Where to Try It:
- Banh Mi Huynh Hoa in Ho Chi Minh City is legendary for its generous fillings and fresh ingredients.
- Banh Mi Phuong in Hoi An is another well-loved spot, known for its unique local twist on the classic banh mi.
3. Bun Cha – Hanoi
Description: Bun Cha is a Northern Vietnamese specialty, consisting of grilled pork served over vermicelli noodles with a side of fresh herbs and a dipping sauce. It’s a flavor-packed dish that combines smoky, sweet, and savory elements.
Where to Try It:
- Bun Cha Huong Lien in Hanoi gained fame when former President Obama dined there. The spot serves up perfectly grilled pork with a flavorful dipping sauce.
- Bun Cha Dac Kim is another popular choice, known for its generous portions and authentic taste.
4. Cao Lau – Hoi An
Description: Cao Lau is a unique noodle dish only found in Hoi An, made with thick noodles, succulent pork, fresh greens, and crunchy croutons. The secret lies in the water used from an ancient Cham well, giving the noodles a special texture.
Where to Try It:
- Cao Lau Ba Be is a local favorite, offering an authentic version of this Hoi An specialty.
- Market stalls in Hoi An’s Central Market are also a great option for an affordable, delicious bowl of Cao Lau.
5. Com Tam – Ho Chi Minh City
Description: Com Tam, or “broken rice,” is a popular Southern Vietnamese dish typically served with grilled pork, a fried egg, and pickled vegetables. It’s a satisfying, hearty meal beloved for its simple ingredients and rich flavors.
Where to Try It:
- Com Tam Ba Ghien in Ho Chi Minh City is famous for its perfectly cooked broken rice and flavorful pork chops.
- Com Tam Cali offers a more modern twist but maintains the traditional taste and quality.
6. Goi Cuon – Throughout Vietnam
Description: Goi Cuon, or fresh spring rolls, are a light, refreshing snack made with shrimp, pork, vermicelli, and fresh herbs, all wrapped in rice paper. Often served with a peanut dipping sauce, they’re a healthy and delicious choice for any time of day.
Where to Try It:
- Quan An Ngon in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City offers beautifully prepared goi cuon with authentic flavors.
- Local street vendors are also excellent places to try goi cuon, especially in the Mekong Delta, where fresh herbs and produce are abundant.
7. Banh Xeo – Central and Southern Vietnam
Description: Banh Xeo is a savory pancake filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and herbs. The pancake is crispy on the outside, soft inside, and traditionally served with lettuce leaves and fresh herbs for wrapping.
Where to Try It:
- Banh Xeo 46A in Ho Chi Minh City is a must-visit spot for this crispy delight.
- Banh Xeo Ba Duong in Da Nang is popular for its generous servings and delicious flavor.
8. Hu Tieu – Mekong Delta
Description: Hu Tieu is a flavorful noodle soup originating from the Mekong Delta, typically served with pork, shrimp, and various fresh herbs. It has a lighter broth than pho, with a unique, slightly sweet flavor.
Where to Try It:
- Hu Tieu My Tho in the Mekong Delta region is the classic spot for an authentic bowl of Hu Tieu.
- Hu Tieu Nam Vang Lieng in Ho Chi Minh City is another favorite, serving a unique take on the dish with Cambodian influences.
9. Che – Throughout Vietnam
Description: Che is a popular Vietnamese dessert, often made with ingredients like beans, coconut milk, and tropical fruits. Served hot or cold, che comes in endless varieties and is a perfect way to end a meal.
Where to Try It:
- Che Ba Thin in Hanoi offers a delightful range of che options for those with a sweet tooth.
- Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City is a great spot to sample different kinds of che in one place.
10. Ca Phe Trung (Egg Coffee) – Hanoi
Description: This famous Vietnamese coffee creation combines strong, dark coffee with a creamy, whipped egg mixture, resulting in a rich, frothy beverage with a unique flavor profile.
Where to Try It:
- Cafe Giang in Hanoi is credited as the birthplace of egg coffee, and it’s still the best place to experience this unique drink.
- Cong Caphe is a popular coffee chain where you can enjoy modern takes on Vietnamese coffee, including egg coffee.
Conclusion
Vietnam’s culinary diversity is a feast for the senses, offering a journey into the country’s rich culture and history. From the bustling food stalls of Hanoi to the peaceful riverside markets of the Mekong Delta, Vietnam’s dishes are as diverse as its landscapes. Whether you’re a foodie on a quest for the ultimate pho or just looking to try something new, these dishes and destinations promise to leave you craving more.
